Wheelchair suspension

ABSTRACT

Wheeled vehicles, such as wheelchairs, that are adapted to traverse obstacles are provided. The wheeled vehicles include a frame, drive wheels, front anti-tip wheels positioned in front of the drive wheels and rear anti-tip wheels positioned behind the drive wheels. One exemplary vehicle includes front anti-tip wheels supported by rigid arms that are fixed to the frame and drive assemblies that are independently suspended from the frame. Another exemplary vehicle includes a linkage that links the front and rear anti-tip wheels, such that movement of one of the front or rear anti-tip wheel relative to the frame causes movement of the other wheel relative to the frame.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 61/250,222, filed on Oct. 9, 2009, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Wheelchairs and scooters are an important means of transportation for a significant portion of society. Whether manual or powered, these vehicles provide an important degree of independence for those they assist. However, this degree of independence can be limited if the wheelchair is required to traverse obstacles such as, for example, curbs that are commonly present at sidewalks, driveways, and other paved surface interfaces. This degree of independence can also be limited if the vehicle is required to ascend inclines or descend declines.

Most wheelchairs have front and rear anti-tip wheels to stabilize the chair from excessive tipping forward or backward and to ensure that the drive wheels are always in contact with the ground. The anti-tip wheels are typically much smaller than the drive wheels and located both forward and rearward of the drive wheels.

SUMMARY

The present application discloses several embodiments of wheeled vehicles, such as wheelchairs, that are adapted to traverse obstacles. The wheeled vehicles include a frame, drive wheels, front anti-tip wheels positioned in front of the drive wheels, and rear anti-tip wheels positioned behind the drive wheels. One exemplary vehicle includes front anti-tip wheels supported by rigid arms that are fixed to the frame and drive assemblies that are independently suspended from the frame. Another exemplary vehicle includes a linkage that links the front and rear anti-tip wheels, such that movement of one of the front anti-tip wheel or the rear anti-tip wheel relative to the frame causes movement of the other wheel relative to the frame.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the accompanying drawings which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, embodiments of the invention are illustrated, which together with a general description of the invention given above and the detailed description given below, serve to exemplify the principles of this invention.

FIG. 1 is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a wheelchair;

FIG. 1A is a side view of a second configuration of the wheelchair of FIG. 1;

FIG. 1B is a side view of a third configuration of the wheelchair of FIG. 1;

FIG. 1C is a side view of a fourth configuration of the wheelchair of FIG. 1;

FIG. 1D is a side view of the wheelchair of FIG. 1 traversing an obstacle;

FIG. 2 is a top view of the wheelchair shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3A is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a wheelchair;

FIG. 3B is a side view of the wheelchair of FIG. 3A, with a drive wheel shown in schematically to more clearly illustrate a suspension assembly of the chassis;

FIG. 3C is a perspective view of the wheelchair of FIG. 3B with a suspension assembly shown on one side of the chassis and the suspension assembly removed from the other side of the chassis

FIG. 3D shows a front anti-tip wheel of the chassis of FIG. 3B traversing an obstacle;

FIG. 3E shows a drive wheel of the chassis of FIG. 3B traversing an obstacle;

FIG. 3F shows a rear anti-tip wheel of the chassis of FIG. 3B traversing an obstacle;

FIG. 3G shows the front anti-tip wheel of the chassis of FIG. 3B in engagement with a support surface to inhibit further tipping;

FIG. 3H is a perspective view of the wheelchair of FIG. 3C, with the drive assembly and drive wheel removed;

FIG. 4A is a side view of another embodiment of a wheelchair;

FIG. 4B is a top view of the embodiment of the wheelchair shown in FIG. 4A;

FIG. 5 is a side view of the wheelchair of FIG. 4A traversing an obstacle;

FIG. 6A is a side view of another embodiment of a wheelchair;

FIG. 6B is a top view of the embodiment of the wheelchair shown in FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7 is a side view of the wheelchair of FIG. 6A traversing an obstacle;

FIG. 8A is a side view of another embodiment of a wheelchair;

FIG. 8B is a top view of the embodiment of the wheelchair shown in FIG. 8A;

FIG. 9 is a side view of the wheelchair of FIG. 8A traversing an obstacle;

FIG. 10A is a side view of another embodiment of a wheelchair;

FIG. 10B is a top view of the embodiment of the wheelchair shown in FIG. 10A;

FIG. 11A is a side view of another embodiment of a wheelchair;

FIG. 11B is a top view of the embodiment of the wheelchair shown in FIG. 11A;

FIG. 12 is a side view of the wheelchair of FIG. 11A traversing an obstacle;

FIG. 13A is a side view of another embodiment of a wheelchair;

FIG. 13B is a top view of the embodiment of the wheelchair shown in FIG. 13A;

FIG. 14A is a side view of another embodiment of a wheelchair;

FIG. 14B is a top view of the embodiment of the wheelchair shown in FIG. 14A;

FIG. 15 is a schematic illustration of a pair of drive assemblies independently suspended from a wheelchair frame;

FIG. 16 is a side view of another embodiment of a wheelchair;

FIG. 16A is a side view of a second configuration of the wheelchair of FIG. 16;

FIG. 16B is a side view of a third configuration of the wheelchair of FIG. 16;

FIG. 16C is a side view of a fourth configuration of the wheelchair of FIG. 16;

FIG. 17 is a top view of the wheelchair shown in FIG. 16;

FIG. 18 is a side view of the wheelchair of FIG. 16 traversing an obstacle;

FIG. 19A is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a wheelchair;

FIG. 19B is a side view of the wheelchair of FIG. 19A, with a drive wheel shown schematically to more clearly illustrate a suspension assembly of the chassis;

FIG. 19C shows a front anti-tip wheel of the chassis of FIG. 19B traversing an obstacle;

FIG. 19D shows a drive wheel of the chassis of FIG. 19B traversing an obstacle;

FIG. 19E shows a rear anti-tip wheel of the chassis of FIG. 19B traversing an obstacle;

FIG. 19F shows the front anti-tip wheel of the chassis of FIG. 19B in engagement with a support surface to inhibit further tipping;

FIG. 20A is a schematic illustration of a first embodiment of a variable length motion transfer arrangement coupled to components of a wheelchair suspension;

FIG. 20B is a schematic illustration of a second embodiment of a variable length motion transfer arrangement coupled to components of a wheelchair suspension;

FIG. 20C is a schematic illustration of a third embodiment of a variable length motion transfer arrangement coupled to components of a wheelchair suspension;

FIG. 21A is a schematic illustration of an alternate embodiment of an of an anti-tip structure;

FIG. 21B is a schematic illustration of an alternate embodiment of an of an anti-tip structure;

FIG. 22A is a schematic illustration of an alternate embodiment of an of an anti-tip structure;

FIG. 22B is a schematic illustration of an alternate embodiment of an of an anti-tip structure;

FIG. 23 is a side view of another embodiment of a wheelchair;

FIG. 23A is a side view of another embodiment of a wheelchair;

FIG. 24 is a top view of the wheelchair shown in FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a side view of the wheelchair of FIG. 23 traversing an obstacle;

FIG. 25A is a side view of the wheelchair of FIG. 23A traversing an obstacle;

FIG. 26A is a side view of an exemplary embodiment of a wheelchair; and

FIG. 26B is a side view of the wheelchair of FIG. 26A, with a drive wheel removed to more clearly illustrate a suspension assembly of the chassis.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present patent application specification and drawings provide multiple embodiments of a vehicle, such as a wheelchair, and suspension that enhances the ability of the vehicle to traverse obstacles and/or improve the ride quality of the wheelchair. The illustrated embodiments of the vehicles are wheelchairs, but the concepts of the illustrated embodiments are equally applicable to other types of vehicles. Generally, the wheelchairs each include a frame, a seat supported by the frame, a pair of drive assemblies, a pair of front anti-tip wheels, and at least one rear anti-tip wheel. In one embodiment, the front anti-tip wheels are connected to the frame, such that positions of axles of the front anti-tip wheels are fixed relative to the frame. In this embodiment, the drive assemblies are moveable with respect to the frame and optionally with respect to one another. In another embodiment, a linkage couples a front anti-tip wheel to a rear anti-tip wheel such that movement of the front anti-tip wheel causes movement of the corresponding rear anti-tip wheel and/or vice versa. For example, the linkage may couple the front anti-tip wheel to the rear anti-tip wheel such that upward movement of the front anti-tip wheel relative to the frame causes upward movement of the rear anti-tip wheel relative to the frame. Similarly, the linkage may couple the front anti-tip wheel to the rear anti-tip wheel such that downward movement of the front anti-tip wheel relative to the frame causes downward movement of the rear anti-tip wheel relative to the frame.

In this application, the term “frame” refers to any component or combination of components that are configured for coupling, mounting, attaching, or affixing of a drive assembly and at least one anti-tip wheel. In this application, the terms “couple,” “mount,” attach,” “affix,” “fix,” etc. are to be interpreted to include direct and indirect, through intermediate “coupling,” “mounting,” attaching,” “affixing,” “fixing,” etc. For example, a component that is “fixed” to the frame may be directly connected to the frame or the component may be connected to the frame by one or more intermediate components that prevent relative movement of the component with respect to the frame.

FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate a first embodiment of a wheelchair 100. The wheelchair 100 includes a frame 102, a seat 103 supported by the frame, first and second drive assemblies 104, 105 (see FIG. 2), first and second suspension assemblies 106, 107 (see FIG. 2), first and second front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 (see FIG. 2) and at least one rear anti-tip wheel 108. The seat 103 is shown schematically in FIGS. 1 and 2 and is omitted in the illustrations of many of the embodiments to indicate that any type of seat can be used. Also, seat 103 may face in either direction (i.e. toward the “front” anti-tip wheels 120 as shown or toward the rear anti-tip wheels 108) in any of the embodiments disclosed in this application. As such, the illustrated embodiments may be configured as front wheel drive wheelchairs or rear wheel drive wheelchairs. In addition, the wheelchair 100 may be configured as a mid-wheel drive wheelchair. Any of the drive and suspension arrangements disclosed in this application may be used on front wheel drive wheelchairs, rear wheel drive wheelchairs, or mid wheel drive wheelchairs. The direction of forward travel may be in the direction indicated by arrow 50 or in direction indicated by arrow 51.

In the illustrated embodiments, the wheelchair may include two separate drive assemblies. However, in other embodiments a single drive motor may drive both drive wheels. In the illustrated embodiments, each drive assembly 104, 105 may be coupled to the frame by a corresponding suspension assembly 106, 107, such that each drive assembly is moveable relative to the frame 102, and such that the drive assemblies are moveable relative to one another. In another embodiment, the drive assemblies are moveable with respect to the frame, but are fixed or linked to one another. The suspension assemblies 106, 107 can take a wide variety of different fowls, several non-limiting examples of which are disclosed in detail below. The suspension assembly 106, 107 can be any arrangement that allows the drive assemblies 106, 107 to move upward and/or downward relative to the frame. In this application, the terms “up”, “upward”, “down”, “downward”, “above” and “below” and any other directional terms refer to the relative positions of the components when all of the wheels of the wheelchair are on a flat, level surface, such as support surface 119 illustrated in FIG. 1.

In the embodiment illustrated by FIGS. 1 and 2, each drive assembly 104, 105 includes a drive motor 130 and a drive wheel 132. The drive motor 130 may comprise a motor/gear box combination, a brushless, gearless motor, or any other known arrangement for driving the drive wheel 132. The drive motor 130 drives the drive wheel 132 about the axis of rotation 112.

The at least one rear anti-tip wheel 108 may take a wide variety of different forms. For example, there may be one, two, or any number of rear anti-tip wheels. Each rear anti-tip wheel 108 may be a wheel of a caster assembly 170 which is rotatable about a substantially vertical axis 171 with the wheel 108 being rotatable about a substantially horizontal axis 174. Alternatively, the wheel 108 may be mounted for rotation only about a substantially horizontal axis 174 (i.e. there is no rotational connection at 171). In this alternative embodiment, the wheel 108 would typically, but not necessarily, be off the ground.

In the illustrated embodiment, two rear anti-tip wheels 108 are disposed rearward of the drive wheels 132. The rear anti-tip wheels may be disposed on the ground or spaced apart from a horizontal support surface when the wheelchair is at rest in a normal operating position on the horizontal support surface. The rear anti-tip wheels may include integral suspension elements, such as resilient spokes. In the example illustrated by FIGS. 1 and 2, two caster assemblies 170 include anti-tip wheels 108 that are disposed on the horizontal support surface 119 when the wheelchair is in a normal operating position.

In the example illustrated by FIGS. 1 and 2, the suspension assemblies 106, 107 are mirror images of one another. As such, only suspension assembly 106 is described in detail. In the illustrated embodiments, the suspension assemblies 106, 107 are independently moveable relative to one another. However, the suspension assemblies 106, 107 can be linked together, such that they move in unison, such that one assembly causes movement of the other assembly, or movement of one assembly is limited based on the position of the other assembly. The illustrated suspension assembly 106 includes a pivot arm 134 and a biasing member 172. The pivot arm 134 is pivotally coupled to the frame 102 at a pivot axis 110. The illustrated drive assembly 104 is fixed to the pivot arm 134. However, the drive assembly 104 may be otherwise coupled to the pivot arm, such that movement of the pivot arm 134 causes movement of the drive assembly 104 relative to the frame 102. The pivot arm 134 may take a wide variety of different forms. For example, the pivot arm 134 may be any member that is pivotable with respect to the frame 102 to move the drive assembly 104 upward and downward with respect to the frame. The illustrated pivot arm 134 includes a forward link 180 and a caster assembly 170, which includes a rearward link 182. In the embodiment illustrated by FIGS. 1 and 2, the drive assembly 102 is fixed to the forward link 180 and a rearward link 182 that supports the rear anti-tip wheel. The rear anti-tip wheel 108 may be coupled to the rearward link 182 in any manner where movement of the pivot arm 134 causes movement of the rear anti-tip wheel 108. The forward link 180 and the rearward link 182 of the pivot arm 134 may be fixed relative to one another as indicated schematically by brace member 184. It should be understood that no actual brace member 184 is required. Rather, the schematic brace member merely indicates any fixed connection between the forward link 180 and the rearward link 182 or that the links are integrally formed. Alternatively, the forward link 180 and the rearward link 182 may be independent members that are pivotable about a common pivot axis or pivotable about two separate pivot axes (See FIGS. 4A and 4B). When the forward link 180 and the rearward link 182 are not fixed together, they may optionally be coupled together by an extendable link 186 (See FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 20C), which would replace the fixed brace member.

The axis 110 can be positioned at a wide variety of different locations with respect to the frame 102. For example, the pivot axis 110 can be positioned at any position on the frame or below the frame using with one or more brackets, etc. In the embodiment illustrated by FIGS. 1 and 2, the drive assembly pivot axis 110 of the drive assembly 104 is below an axis of rotation 112 of a drive axle 114 of the drive assembly 104.

The pivot arm 134 may be a substantially rigid member that is connected to the motor drive 130 and the rear anti-tip wheel 108. In one embodiment, the pivot arm 134 is flexible or one or more portions of the pivot arm are flexible to provide inherent shock absorbing properties in the pivot arm. The pivot arm 134 may be made from a wide variety of materials, including, but not limited to, metals and plastics.

The biasing member 172 can take a wide variety of different forms. Any spring device, devices or assembly can be used as the biasing member. The biasing member may be a single spring, a bi-directional spring, or multiple spring elements. The biasing member may include a shock absorbing component, for example, the biasing member may be a shock absorber 2006 with a spring return (See FIG. 20C).

In the example illustrated by FIGS. 1 and 2, a spring mount 190 is fixed to the frame 102. The biasing member 172 is disposed between the spring mount 190 and the pivot arm 134. The biasing member 172 illustrated by FIG. 1 is a compression spring that biases the rearward link 182 downward relative to the frame 102 as indicated by arrow 192. An optional stop 194 may be fixed to the frame to limit downward movement of the rearward link 182 with respect to the frame. In one embodiment, the biasing member is not fixed to the mount 190 or the pivot arm 134. In another embodiment, the biasing member is connected to one or both of the mount 190 and the pivot arm 134.

In the embodiment illustrated by FIGS. 1 and 2, the downward biasing of the rearward link 182 causes upward biasing of the forward link 180. FIGS. 1, 1A, 1B and 1C illustrate that the biasing member 172 can be an extension spring or a compression spring positioned at a variety of different locations to provide the upward drive assembly/downward rearward link 182 biasing. For example, in FIG. 1A the biasing member 172 is an extension spring positioned below the rearward link 182. In FIG. 1B, the biasing member 172 is an extension spring positioned above the forward link 180. In FIG. 1C, the biasing member 172 is a compression spring positioned below the forward link 180. In another embodiment, the biasing member 172 is configured to bias the forward link 180 downward and rearward link 182 upward. This can be accomplished in a variety of different ways. For example, in the examples illustrated by FIGS. 1 and 1C, the biasing member 172 can be changed from a compression spring to an extension spring and, in the examples illustrated by FIGS. 1A and 1B, the biasing member 172 can be changed from an extension spring to a compression spring. In another embodiment, the biasing member 172 is configured to bias the pivot arm 134 to a home position, such as the position relative to the frame illustrated by FIG. 1. Biasing to a home position can be accomplished in a variety of different ways. For example, a bidirectional spring can be coupled to the pivot arm and/or any one or more of the spring arrangements that bias the rear link 182 downward can be used with any one or more of the spring arrangements that bias the forward link 180 downward. In an exemplary embodiment, the biasing member is configured such that the drive wheel 132 and the rear anti-tip wheel 108 engage the horizontal support surface 119 when the wheelchair is at rest on the horizontal support surface.

The first and second front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 may take a wide variety of different forms. For example, the wheels 120, 121 may be wheels of caster assemblies (see for example, rear caster assemblies 170) or the wheels may be mounted for rotation only about a substantially horizontal axis 173, as in the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 are located forward of the drive wheels 132. The front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 may be disposed on the horizontal support surface 119 or spaced apart from the horizontal support surface 119 when the wheelchair is at rest or in a normal operating position, as in the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 1. In one exemplary embodiment, the front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 may include integral suspension elements, such as resilient spokes.

The first and second front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 are supported by first and second arms 191 that are coupled to the frame 102. However, any number of arms and front anti-tip wheels may be included. In the example illustrated by FIGS. 1 and 2, the arms 191 are fixedly connected to the frame. However, in other embodiments, the arms 191 may be suspended from the frame such that the arms are moveable with respect to the frame. For example, the arms 191 may be pivotally connected to the frame (See for example arm 1790 in FIG. 16C) and/or coupled to the frame for translational movement relative to the frame (See for example coupling 806 in FIG. 8A). The first and second arms 191 may take a wide variety of different forms. The arms 191 may be rigid or substantially rigid. In one embodiment, the arms 191 are flexible to provide inherent shock absorbing properties in the arm. The arms 191 may be made from a wide variety of materials, including, but not limited to, metals and plastics. In the example illustrated by FIGS. 1 and 2, the arms 191 are rigid. An axle that defines the axis of rotation 173 of each of the front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 is connected to each of the arms. As such, the front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 are connected to the arms 191 such that positions of axes of rotation 173 of the front anti-tip wheels with respect to the frame 102 are fixed. In the example illustrated by FIGS. 1 and 2, the front anti-tip idler wheels 120, 121 are spaced apart from the horizontal support surface 119 when the wheelchair is at rest or in the normal operating position on the horizontal support surface 119.

FIGS. 3A-3H illustrate a more specific embodiment of the wheelchair 100 illustrated by FIGS. 1 and 2. It should be understood that the present application is not limited to the more specific embodiment illustrated by FIGS. 3A-3H. FIG. 3A illustrates the wheelchair 100 at rest in the normal operating position on the horizontal support surface 119. FIG. 3B illustrates the wheelchair of FIG. 3A with the drive wheel 132 schematically illustrated to more clearly illustrate the suspension 106. FIGS. 1D and 3D-3G illustrate operation of the wheelchair 100. More specifically, these views are elevational views that illustrate embodiments of the wheelchair 100 traversing over an obstacle 300 by ascending the obstacle.

Referring to FIGS. 1D and 3D, the drive wheels 132 bring the front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 into engagement with the obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 force the anti-tip wheels 120, 121 up and onto the obstacle. The drive wheels 132 remain on the ground and the upward movement (indicated by arrow 302) of the front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 causes the frame 102 to rotate (indicated by arrow 304) about the pivot axis 110 of the suspensions 106, 107. The rotation 304 of the frame 102 relative to the pivot axis causes compression (indicated by arrows 306) of the biasing member 172. As a result, additional downward force is applied to the rear anti-tip wheel 108.

Referring to FIG. 3E, the drive wheels 132 continue to drive the wheelchair 100 forward. The drive wheels 132 engage and climb over the obstacle 300. As the drive wheels 132 move up and over the obstacle, the biasing member 172 forces the rear anti-tip wheel 108 down.

Referring to FIG. 3F, the drive wheels 132 move the wheelchair 100 further forward on the obstacle 300. The rear anti-tip wheels 108 engage the obstacle 300. The biasing member 172 cushions the impact between the rear anti-tip wheels 108 and the obstacle. The drive wheels 132 continue to drive the wheelchair 100 forward and pull the rear anti-tip wheels 108 up onto the obstacle 300.

Referring to FIG. 3G, a variety of situations can cause forward tipping of a wheelchair. For example, traveling down a hill, decelerating rapidly, and driving off of an obstacle, such as a curb can cause forward tipping. In the example illustrated by FIG. 3F, the front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 engage the support surface 119 to prevent excessive forward tipping.

FIGS. 4A and 4B illustrate another embodiment of a wheelchair 400. The wheelchair 400 has separate forward and rearward links 180, 182. Referring to FIG. 4B, as in all of the embodiments described herein, the wheelchair 400 may include any number of rear anti-tip wheels. For example, FIG. 4B illustrates that the wheelchair 400 may include a single center anti-tip wheel (shown in phantom), first and second rear anti-tip wheels (shown in solid lines), or three rear anti-tip wheels (all of the illustrated anti-tip wheels). The forward link 180 is pivotally connected to the frame 102 at a pivot axis 410 and the rearward link 182 is pivotally connected to the frame at a pivot axis 411. The pivot axes 410, 411 may be positioned at any location with respect to the frame 102, including locations near or below the frame. The pivot axis 410 may be forward or rearward of the axis of rotation 112 of the drive wheel. The pivot axis 410 may be coincident with the pivot axis 411. The separate links 180, 182 allow for independent movement of the drive assembly 104 relative to the rear anti-tip wheel 108. Separate biasing members 472, 473 bias the links 180, 182 downward relative to the frame as indicated by arrows 420, 422 respectively. An optional motion transfer link 402 may be coupled to the forward and rearward links 180, 182 to control relative motion therebetween. The motion transfer link 402 can take a wide variety of different forms. For example, the link may be rigid, flexible, or extendible in length. Any link or arrangement that transfers at least some portion of motion in at least one direction of the forward link 180 to the rearward link 182 and/or vice versa can be used as a motion transfer link 402. Examples include, but are not limited to springs, struts, shock absorbers, rigid links, flexible links, belts, wires, cam arrangements, gear trains, any combination of these, etc.

FIG. 5 illustrates the wheelchair 400 traversing over an obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 bring the front anti-tip wheels 120 into engagement with the obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 force the anti-tip wheels 120 up and onto the obstacle. The rear anti-tip wheels are biased against the ground by the biasing member 473 and the drive wheels 132 are biased against the ground by the biasing member 472. Upward movement (indicated by arrow 502) of the front anti-tip wheels 120 causes the frame 102 to cant. The canting of the frame 102 may cause some relaxation of the biasing member 472 and/or some compression of the biasing member 473. The drive wheels 132 continue to drive the wheelchair 400 forward, and the drive wheels climb over the obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 move the wheelchair 400 further forward to pull the rear anti-tip wheels over the obstacle 300.

FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate another embodiment of a wheelchair 600. The wheelchair 600 has a pivot arm 134 and one or more rear anti-tip wheels 108 are connected to the frame 102 by a fixed arm 602. The drive assembly 104 is connected to the pivot arm 134. The pivot arm 134 is pivotally connected to the frame 102 at a pivot axis 610. The pivot axis 610 may be positioned at any location with respect to the frame 102, including locations near or below the frame. The pivot axis 610 may be forward or rearward of the axis of rotation 112 of the drive wheel. The biasing member 172 biases the pivot arm 134 downward relative to the frame as indicated by arrow 618.

FIG. 7 illustrates the wheelchair 600 traversing over an obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 bring the front anti-tip wheels 120 into engagement with the obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 force the anti-tip wheels 120 up and onto the obstacle. The drive wheels 132 are biased against the ground by the biasing member 172. Upward movement (indicated by arrow 702) of the front anti-tip wheels 120 causes the frame 102 to pivot about the pivot axis 610 (indicated by arrow 704). The pivoting of the frame 102 may cause some relaxation of the biasing member 172 depending on the arrangement of the biasing member. The drive wheels 132 continue to drive the wheelchair 600 forward, and the drive wheels climb over the obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 move the wheelchair 600 further forward to pull the rear anti-tip wheels 108 over the obstacle 300.

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate another embodiment of a wheelchair 800. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated by FIGS. 8A and 8B, the wheelchair includes track suspension assemblies 806, 807 (see FIG. 8B). The suspension assemblies 806, 807 are mirror images of one another. As such, only suspension assembly 806 is described in detail. The suspension assembly 806 may be any arrangement that defines a path of travel of the drive assembly 104 with respect to the frame 102. For example, the suspension assembly 806 may include at least one track 808, at least one follower 810, and at least one biasing member 172, such as a spring or other similar device. The illustrated suspension assembly 806 includes two tracks 808 and two followers 810, but any number of tracks and followers can be used. The illustrated followers 810 are attached to the drive assembly 104 and the tracks 808 are attached to the frame 102. Alternatively, the followers 810 could be attached to the frame 102 with the tracks 808 attached to the drive assembly 104. Further, the drive assembly 104 and/or frame 102 may be otherwise coupled to the tracks 808 and followers 810. In the illustrated embodiment, the followers 810 are slideably disposed in the tracks 808 such that the tracks 808 define the path of relative movement of the drive assembly 104 relative to the frame 102.

The illustrated tracks 808 are linear and define a path of travel that extends in a generally vertical direction. However, the tracks can be configured to define a path of travel having any shape, extending in any direction, including arcuate shapes. The path of travel can have one or more straight and/or curved portions. Further, an arrangement may be included to rotate the drive assembly 104 relative to the frame 102 as the drive assembly 104 moves along the path of travel.

The biasing member 172 can take a wide variety of different forms, as described above. In the example illustrated by FIGS. 8A and 8B, the biasing member 172 is disposed in the track 808 between an end 812 of the track and the follower 810. This arrangement biases the drive assembly 104 downward relative to the frame 102. However, the biasing member 172 can be arranged in any manner to provide a biasing force between the drive assembly 104 and the frame 102. The biasing member 172 may be connected directly to the frame 102 and the drive assembly 104 or through one or more intermediate members. An optional stop 894, such as the end surface of the track, may be fixed to the frame to limit downward movement of the drive assembly 104 with respect to the frame. In an exemplary embodiment, the biasing member 172 causes the drive wheel 132 to engage the horizontal support surface 119 when the wheelchair is at rest on the horizontal support surface.

In the example illustrated by FIGS. 8A and 8B, the wheelchair 800 has a rearward link 882 that supports the rear anti-tip wheel 108. The rearward link 882 is optionally pivotally connected to the frame at a pivot axis 810. The pivot axis 810 may be positioned at any location with respect to the frame 102, including locations near or below the frame. The separate link 882 allow for independent movement of the drive assembly 104 relative to the rear anti-tip wheel 108. A separate biasing member 873 biases the link 882 downward relative to the frame 102 as indicated by arrow 820.

FIG. 9 illustrates the wheelchair 800 traversing over an obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 bring the front anti-tip wheels 120 into engagement with the obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 force the anti-tip wheels 120 up and onto the obstacle. The rear anti-tip wheels 108 are biased against the ground by the biasing member 873 and the drive wheels 132 are biased against the ground by the biasing member 172. Upward movement (indicated by arrow 802) of the front anti-tip wheels 120 causes the frame 102 to cant. The canting of the frame 102 may cause some relaxation of the biasing member 172 and some compression of the biasing member 873. The drive wheels 132 continue to drive the wheelchair 800 forward, and the drive wheels climb over the obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 move the wheelchair 800 further forward to pull the rear anti-tip wheels over the obstacle 300.

FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate another embodiment of a wheelchair 1000. The wheelchair 1000 is similar to the wheelchair 800, with the exception that the movement of the rear anti-tip wheels 108 relative to the frame 102 is at least partially linked to movement of the drive assembly 104 relative to the frame. This coupling can be accomplished in a wide variety of different ways. In the example illustrated by FIG. 10A, the relative movement of the drive assembly 104 relative to the rear anti-tip wheels 108 is restricted by another track and follower arrangement 1002. However, any arrangement can be used. Any link or arrangement that transfers at least some portion of motion in at least one direction of the drive assembly 104 to the rear anti-tip wheel 108 can be used.

The illustrated track and follower arrangement 1002 includes at least one track 1008, at least one follower 1010, and at least one coupling member 1012. The illustrated follower 1010 is attached or coupled to the pivot link 882 and the track 1008 is attached to the frame 102. Alternatively, the follower 1010 could be attached to the frame 102 with the track 1008 attached to the pivot link 882. In the illustrated embodiment, the follower 1010 is slideably disposed in the track 1008. The illustrated track 1008 is linear and defines a path of travel that extends in a generally vertical direction. However, the tracks can be configured to define a path of travel having any shape, extending in any direction, including arcuate shapes. The path of travel can have one or more straight and/or curved portions.

In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling member 1012 couples the follower 1010 to the drive assembly 104. As a result, the position of the rear anti-tip wheel 108 is at least partially dependent on the position of the drive assembly 104. The coupling member 1012 can take a wide variety of different forms. Any arrangement of transferring at least some portion of movement of the drive assembly 104 to the follower can be used. In the illustrated embodiment, the follower 1012 is an extension of the link 882 that is engaged by the drive assembly 104 when the drive assembly moves upward relative to the frame 102. This upward movement of the follower 1010 relative to the frame translates into downward movement of the rear anti-tip wheel relative to the frame 102 in the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 10A.

The wheelchair 1000 will traverse obstacles in generally the same manner as the wheelchair 800, except the movement of the rear anti-tip wheel 108 relative to the frame is somewhat dependent on the position of the drive assembly 104 relative to the frame.

FIGS. 11A and 11B illustrate another embodiment of a wheelchair 1100. The wheelchair 1100 is similar to the wheelchair 1000, except the rear anti-tip wheel 108 is connected to the frame 102 by a fixed arm 1102. FIG. 12 illustrates the wheelchair 1100 traversing over an obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 bring the front anti-tip wheels 120 into engagement with the obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 force the anti-tip wheels 120 up and onto the obstacle. The drive wheels 132 are biased against the ground by the biasing member 172. Upward movement (indicated by arrow 1102) of the front anti-tip wheels 120 causes the frame 102 to cant. The canting of the frame 102 may cause some relaxation of the biasing member 172 depending on the arrangement of the biasing member. The drive wheels 132 continue to drive the wheelchair 1100 forward, and the drive wheels climb over the obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 move the wheelchair 1100 further forward to pull the rear anti-tip wheels 108 over the obstacle 300.

FIGS. 13A and 13B illustrate another embodiment of a wheelchair 1300. The wheelchair 1300 is similar to the wheelchair 800, except the rear anti-tip wheels 108 are each coupled to the frame 102 by a track suspension assembly 1306. The suspension assembly 1306 may be any arrangement that defines a path of travel of the rear anti-tip wheel with respect to the frame. For example, the suspension assembly 1306 may include at least one track 1308, at least one follower 1310, and at least one biasing member 173, such as a spring. The illustrated suspension assembly 1306 includes two tracks 1308 and two followers 1310, but any number of tracks and followers can be used. The illustrated followers 1310 are attached to an arm 1350 that carries the rear anti-tip wheel 108 and the tracks 1308 are attached to the frame 102. Alternatively, the followers 1310 could be attached to the frame 102 with the tracks 1308 attached to the rear anti-tip wheel. Further, the rear anti-tip wheels 108 and/or the frame 102 may be otherwise coupled to the tracks 1308 and followers 1310. In the illustrated embodiment, the followers 1310 are slideably disposed in the tracks 1308 such that the tracks 808 define the path of relative movement of the rear anti-tip wheels 108 with respect to the frame 102. The illustrated tracks 808 are linear and define a path of travel that extends in a generally vertical direction. However, the tracks can be configured to define a path of travel having any shape, extending in any direction. The path of travel can have one or more straight and/or curved portions. Further, the arm 1350 can be pivoted or rotated relative to the frame as the arm 1350 and connected anti-tip wheel 108 moves along the path of travel.

The biasing member 173 can take a wide variety of different forms as described above. In the example illustrated by FIGS. 13A and 13B, the biasing member 173 is disposed in the track 1308 between an end 1312 of the track and the follower 1310. This arrangement biases the anti-tip wheel 108 downward relative to the frame 102. However, the biasing member 173 can be arranged in any manner to provide a biasing force between the rear anti-tip wheel 108 and the frame 102. The biasing member 173 may be connected directly to the frame 102 and the anti-tip wheel 108 or through one or more intermediate members. A stop 1394, such as the end surface of the track, may be fixed to the frame to limit downward movement of the rear anti-tip wheel 108 with respect to the frame. In an exemplary embodiment, the biasing member 173 causes the rear anti-tip wheel 108 to engage the horizontal support surface 119 when the wheelchair is at rest on the horizontal support surface.

Referring to FIG. 13A, an optional motion transfer link 1352 (not shown in FIG. 13B) may be coupled to the drive assembly 104 and the rear anti-tip wheel 108 to control relative motion therebetween. The motion transfer link 1352 can take a wide variety of different forms. For example, the link may be rigid, flexible, or extendible in length. Any link 1352 or arrangement that transfers at least some portion of motion in at least one direction of the drive assembly 104 to the rear anti-tip wheel 108 can be used.

FIGS. 14A and 14B illustrate another embodiment of a wheelchair 1400. The wheelchair 1400 is similar to the wheelchair 1300, except the track suspension assemblies 806 are replaced with the pivot arm 180 and biasing member 172 arrangement shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B. An optional motion transfer link 1452 (not shown in FIG. 14B) may be coupled to the drive assembly 104 and the rear anti-tip wheel 108 to control relative motion therebetween. The motion transfer link 1452 can take a wide variety of different forms and can be coupled to the suspension assemblies in a wide variety of different ways, including, but not limited to, pivot connections, etc. For example, the link may be rigid, flexible, or extendible in length. Any link 1452 or arrangement that transfers at least some portion of motion in at least one direction of the drive assembly 104 to the rear anti-tip wheel 108 can be used.

FIG. 15 is a schematic view illustrating drive wheels 132 suspended to sides 1500 of the frame 102. In one embodiment, one or more wheels that are suspended from the frame, such as drive wheels 132, front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 (not shown in FIG. 15) and/or rear anti-tip wheels 108 (not shown in FIG. 15), are suspended such that upward and downward movement of the wheel does not result in significant fore and aft movement of the suspended wheel. This can be accomplished in a variety of different ways. For example, the track and follower arrangements disclosed above may be configured to have this effect. In FIG. 15, drive wheels 132 are coupled to the frame 102 by a pivot arm 1502. A pivot axis 1504 of the pivot arm 1502 is perpendicular or substantially perpendicular to an axis of rotation 112 of the drive wheel (which is generally perpendicular to the sides 1500 of the frame). As a result, when the pivot arm 1502 pivots upward or downward, the drive wheel 132 does not move substantially fore or aft with respect to the frame 102. Any of the suspensions of wheels relative to the frame disclosed in this application can be replaced with this type of suspension.

FIGS. 16 and 17 illustrate another embodiment of a wheelchair 1700. The wheelchair 1700 includes a frame 102, a seat 103 supported by the frame, first and second drive assemblies 104, 105, first and second suspension assemblies 1706, 1707, first and second front anti-tip wheels 120, 121, and a pair of rear anti-tip wheels 108. Each drive assembly 104, 105 is coupled to the frame 102. In the embodiment illustrated by FIGS. 16 and 17, the drive assemblies are fixed to the frame 102. However, the drive assemblies 104, 105 can alternatively be coupled to the frame in a manner that allows relative movement between the drive assemblies and the frame 102. For example, the drive assemblies 104, 105 can be coupled to the frame 102 using any of the suspension assemblies disclosed in this application.

In the example illustrated by FIGS. 16 and 17, the suspension assemblies 1706, 1707 are mirror images of one another. As such, only suspension assembly 1706 is described in detail. In the exemplary embodiment, a front anti-tip wheel 120 is positioned forward of the drive wheels 122 and the rear anti-tip wheel 108 is positioned rearward of the drive wheels. The suspension 1706 includes a linkage 1709 and a biasing member 172. The linkage 1709 couples the front anti-tip wheel 120 to the rear anti-tip wheel 108 such that movement of the front anti-tip wheel relative to the frame 102 is transferred to the rear anti-tip wheel 108 and/or vice versa. The linkage 1709 may take a wide variety of different forms. Any arrangement that transfers motion of the front anti-tip wheel 120 relative to the frame 102 to the rear anti-tip wheel 108 can be employed. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated by FIGS. 16 and 17, the linkage 1709 couples the front anti-tip wheel 120 to the rear anti-tip wheel 108 such that upward movement of the front anti-tip wheel 120 relative to the frame 102 causes upward movement of the rear anti-tip wheel 108 relative to the frame and/or vice versa. A wide variety of different linkages or arrangements may couple the front anti-tip wheel 120 and the rear anti-tip wheel 108 such that upward movement of the front anti-tip wheel 120 relative to the frame 102 causes upward movement of the rear anti-tip wheel 108 relative to the frame and/or vice versa. The illustrated linkage 1709 is but one example of the many different arrangements that may be used.

The linkage 1709 includes a front anti-tip pivot arm 1790, a rear anti-tip pivot arm 1734, and a connecting link 1711. The front anti-tip pivot arm 1790 is pivotally connected to the frame 102 at a pivot axis 1713. A forward portion 1735 of the front anti-tip pivot arm 1790 extends forward from the pivot axis 1713 and a rearward portion 1737 of the front anti-tip pivot arm 1790 extends rearward from the pivot axis 1713. The rear anti-tip pivot arm 1734 is pivotally coupled to the frame 102 at a pivot axis 1710. A forward portion 1780 of the rear anti-tip pivot arm 1734 extends forward from the pivot axis 1710 and a rearward portion 1782 of the rear anti-tip pivot arm 1734 extends rearward from the pivot axis. The pivot axis 1713 and the pivot axis 1710 can be positioned at a wide variety of different locations. For example, the pivot axis 1713 and the pivot axis 1710 can be positioned at any position on the frame and/or positions below the frame by one or more brackets. In the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 16, the pivot axis 1713 is forward and below the axis of rotation 112 of the drive wheel 132. In the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 16C and the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 19, the pivot axis 1713 is aligned with the axis of rotation 112 of the drive wheel. In another embodiment, the pivot axis is positioned below the axis of rotation 173 of the front anti-tip wheel. In the embodiments illustrated by FIGS. 16 and 19B, the pivot axis 1710 is positioned forward of a midplane 1750 (i.e. a plane located at a position half way between the front and the back of the frame). The illustrated pivot axis 1710 is located at or near a bottom of the frame. Nevertheless, pivot axis 1710 can also be positioned very near or even at or behind the mid-plane 1750.

The pivot arms 1734, 1790 may be substantially rigid members or may be flexible to provide inherent shock absorbing properties in the pivot arm. The pivot arms 1734, 1790 may be made from a wide variety of materials, including, but not limited to, metals and plastics.

The connecting link 1711 couples the front anti-tip pivot arm 1790 to the rear anti-tip pivot arm 1734. The connecting link may take a variety of different forms and may be coupled to the pivot arms 1734, 1790 in a wide variety of different ways. The connecting link 1711 may have any configuration that transfers motion between the front anti-tip pivot arm 1790 and the rear anti-tip pivot arm 1734. In the example illustrated by FIG. 17, the connecting link 1711 is a rigid member that is pivotally connected to the front anti-tip pivot arm 1790 at a pivot axis 1792 and that is pivotally connected to the rear anti-tip pivot arm at a pivot axis 1794. The connecting link could also be flexible, or extendible in length and can be coupled to the pivot arms in any manner.

The biasing member 172 can take a wide variety of different forms. Any spring device, devices, or assembly can be used as the biasing member. The biasing member may be a single spring, a bi-directional spring, or multiple spring elements. The biasing member may include a shock absorbing component, for example, the biasing member may be a shock absorber with a spring return 2006 (See FIG. 20C). In the example illustrated by FIGS. 16 and 17, the biasing member 172 is disposed between a mount 1790 that is fixed to the frame and the pivot arm 1734. The biasing member 172 illustrated by FIG. 16 is a compression spring that biases the rear anti-tip arm 1734 downward as indicated by arrow 1762. A stop 194 may be fixed to the frame to limit downward movement of the pivot arm 1734 with respect to the frame. In the embodiment illustrated by FIGS. 16 and 17, the downward biasing of the rear pivot arm 1734 causes downward biasing of the forward anti-tip arm 1790 through the connecting link 1711 as indicated by arrow 1764.

FIGS. 16A-16C illustrate that the biasing member 172 can be an extension spring or a compression spring positioned at a variety of different locations to provide the downward front and rear pivot arms 1790, 1734 biasing. For example, in FIG. 16A the biasing member 172 is an extension spring positioned below the rear anti-tip arm 1734. In FIG. 16B the biasing member 172 is an extension spring positioned above the front anti-tip arm 1790. In FIG. 16C, the biasing member 172 is a compression spring positioned above the front anti-tip arm 1790. In another embodiment, the biasing member 172 is configured to bias the front and rear anti-tip arms 1790, 1734 upward. This can be accomplished in a variety of different ways. For example, in the examples illustrated by FIGS. 16 and 16C, the biasing member 172 can be changed from a compression spring to an extension spring and in the examples illustrated by FIGS. 16A and 16B, the biasing member 172 can be changed from an extension spring to a compression spring. In another embodiment, the biasing member 172 is configured to bias the pivot arm 134 to a home position, such as the position relative to the frame illustrated by FIG. 16.

Biasing to a home position can be accomplished in a variety of different ways. For example, a bidirectional spring can be coupled to the linkage 1709 and/or any one or more of the spring arrangements that bias the pivot arms downward can be used with any one or more of the spring arrangements that bias the pivot arms upward. In an exemplary embodiment, whether the biasing member 172 biases the arms upward, downward, or to a home position, the biasing member causes the rear anti-tip wheel 108 to engage the horizontal support surface 119 and the front anti-tip wheel to be spaced apart from the horizontal support surface when the wheelchair is at rest on the horizontal support surface. In another embodiment, the front anti-tip wheel 120 engages the horizontal support surface 119 when the wheelchair is at rest on the horizontal support surface.

The front anti-tip wheel 120 is connected to the forward end 1735 of the front anti-tip arm 1790 and the rear anti-tip wheel is connected to the rearward end 1782 of the rear anti-tip arm 1734. As noted above, the first and second front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 and the rear anti-tip wheels 108 may take a wide variety of different forms. In the embodiment illustrated by FIGS. 16 and 17, the front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 are mounted for rotation only about a substantially horizontal axis 173 and the rear anti-tip wheels 108 are wheels of caster assemblies 170.

FIGS. 19A-19F illustrate a more specific embodiment of the wheelchair 1700 illustrated by FIGS. 16 and 17. It should be understood that the present application is not limited to the more specific embodiment illustrated by FIGS. 19A-19D. FIG. 19A illustrates the wheelchair 1700 at rest in the normal operating position on the horizontal support surface 119. FIG. 19B illustrates the wheelchair of FIG. 19A with the drive wheel 132 shown schematically to more clearly illustrate the suspension 1706.

FIGS. 18 and 19C-19E illustrate operation of the wheelchair 1700 to traverse over an obstacle 300. Referring to FIGS. 18 and 19C, the drive wheels 132 bring the front anti-tip wheels 120 into engagement with the obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 force the anti-tip wheels 120, 121 up and onto the obstacle. This cause the anti-tip wheels 120 to move upward with respect to the frame 102, which, in turn, causes the anti-tip wheels 108 to move upward relative to the frame 102. In the embodiments illustrated by FIGS. 18 and 19C, the linkage 1709 transfers the upward movement of the front anti-tip wheel 120 to the rear anti-tip wheel 108 against the biasing force of the biasing member 172. When anti-tip wheel 120 moves upward, the front anti-tip pivot arm 1790 rotates about the pivot axis 1713 as indicated by arrow 1910. In the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 19C, the pivot axis 1713 is coincident with the axis of rotation 112 of the drive wheel 132, but could be positioned at any location. The rotation of the front anti-tip pivot arm 1790 forces the connecting link 1711 downward as indicated by arrow 1912. The downward movement of the connecting link 1711 causes the rear anti-tip pivot arm 1734 to rotate about the pivot axis 1710 as indicated by arrow 1914. The rearward portion 1782 of the rear anti-tip pivot arm 1734 moves relatively upward with respect to the frame against the biasing force of the biasing member 172 as indicated by arrow 1916. The drive wheels 132 and the rear anti-tip wheels 108 remain on the ground and the upward movement (indicated by arrow 302) of the front anti-tip wheels 120 may cause the frame 102 to cant.

Referring to FIG. 19D, the drive wheels 132 continue to drive the wheelchair 1700 forward. The drive wheels 132 engage and climb over the obstacle 300. Referring to FIG. 19E, the drive wheels 132 move the wheelchair 1700 further forward on the obstacle 300. The rear anti-tip wheels 108 engage the obstacle 300. The biasing member 172 cushions the impact between the rear anti-tip wheels 108 and the obstacle. The drive wheels 132 continue to drive the wheelchair 1700 forward and pull the rear anti-tip wheels 108 up onto the obstacle 300.

Referring to FIG. 19F, a variety of situations can cause forward tipping of a wheelchair. For example, traveling down a hill, decelerating rapidly, and driving off of an obstacle, such as a curb can cause forward tipping. In the example illustrated by FIG. 19F, the front anti-tip wheels 120 engage the support surface to prevent excessive forward tipping. When the front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 engage the support surface 119, the biasing member 172 is compressed by the linkage 1709 to cushion the impact with the support surface.

In one exemplary embodiment, the amount of force applied by the biasing member 172, and/or the position of the pivot axis 1713 can be adjusted or selected to control the amount of resistance to forward tip provided by the front anti-tip pivot arm 1790. For example, the resistance to forward tip can be increased for a heavy user by increasing a spring constant of the biasing member and/or shortening the distance between the pivot axis 1713 and the front anti-tip wheel 120. The spring constant of the biasing member can be decreased and/or the distance between the pivot axis 1713 and the front anti-tip wheel 120 can be increased to provide smoother curb climbing for a lighter user that may need less resistance to forward tip.

FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate another embodiment of a wheelchair 2300. The wheelchair 2300 includes a frame 102, first and second drive assemblies 104, 105, first and second suspension assemblies 2306, 2307, first and second front anti-tip wheels 120, 121, and one or more rear anti-tip wheels 108. Each drive assembly 104, 105 is coupled to the frame 102. In the embodiment illustrated by FIGS. 23 and 24, the drive assemblies are fixed to the frame 102. However, the drive assemblies 104, 105 can alternatively be coupled to the frame in a manner that allows relative movement between the drive assemblies and the frame 102. For example, the drive assemblies 104, 105 can be coupled to the frame 102 using any of the suspension assemblies disclosed in this application or any other suspension arrangement.

In the example illustrated by FIGS. 23 and 24, the suspension assemblies 2306, 2307 are mirror images of one another. As such, only suspension assembly 2306 is described in detail. In the exemplary embodiment, a front anti-tip wheel 120 is positioned forward of the drive wheels 122 and the rear anti-tip wheel 108 is positioned rearward of the drive wheels. The suspension 2306 includes a linkage 2309 and a biasing member 172. The linkage 2309 couples the front anti-tip wheel 120 to the rear anti-tip wheel 108 such that movement of the front anti-tip wheel relative to the frame 102 is transferred to the rear anti-tip wheel 108 and/or vice versa. The linkage 2309 may take a wide variety of different forms. Any arrangement that transfers motion of the front anti-tip wheel 120 relative to the frame 102 to the rear anti-tip wheel 108 and/or vice versa can be employed. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated by FIGS. 23 and 24, the linkage 2309 couples the front anti-tip wheel 120 to the rear anti-tip wheel 108 such that upward movement of the front anti-tip wheel 120 relative to the frame 102 causes upward movement of the rear anti-tip wheel 108 relative to the frame and vice versa. A wide variety of different linkages or arrangements may couple the front anti-tip wheel 120 and the rear anti-tip wheel 108 such that upward movement of the front anti-tip wheel 120 relative to the frame 102 causes upward movement of the rear anti-tip wheel 108 relative to the frame and/or vice versa. The illustrated linkage 2309 is but one example of the many different arrangements that may be used.

The linkage 2309 includes a front anti-tip pivot arm 2390, a rear anti-tip pivot arm 2334, and a connecting link 2311. The front anti-tip pivot arm 2390 is pivotally connected to the frame 102 at a pivot axis 2313. A first portion 2335 of the front anti-tip pivot arm 2390 extends forward from the pivot axis 2313 and a second portion 2337 of the front anti-tip pivot arm 2390 extends upward from the first portion 2335. The rear anti-tip pivot arm 2334 is pivotally coupled to the frame 102 at a pivot axis 2310. A forward portion 2380 of the rear anti-tip pivot arm 2334 extends forward from the pivot axis 2310 and a rearward portion 2382 of the rear anti-tip pivot arm 2334 extends rearward from the pivot axis. The pivot axis 2313 and the pivot axis 2310 can be positioned at a wide variety of different locations. For example, the pivot axis 2313 and the pivot axis 2310 can be positioned at any position on the frame and/or positions below the frame by one or more brackets. In the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 23, the pivot axis 2313 is forward and below the axis of rotation 112 of the drive wheel 132. In the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 23, the pivot axis 2310 is positioned forward of a midplane 2350 (i.e. a plane located at a position half way between the front and the back of the frame). The illustrated pivot axis 2310 is located at or near a bottom of the frame. Nevertheless, pivot axis 2310 can also be positioned very near or even at or behind the mid-plane 2350.

The pivot arms 2334, 2390 may be substantially rigid members or may be flexible to provide inherent shock absorbing properties in the pivot arm. The pivot arms 2334, 2390 may be made from a wide variety of materials, including, but not limited to, metals and plastics.

The connecting link 2311 couples the front anti-tip pivot arm 2390 to the rear anti-tip pivot arm 2334. The connecting link may take a variety of different forms and may be coupled to the pivot arms 2334, 2390 in a wide variety of different ways. The connecting link 2311 may have any configuration that transfers motion between the front anti-tip pivot arm 2390 and the rear anti-tip pivot arm 2334. In the example illustrated by FIG. 23, the connecting link 2311 is a rigid member that is pivotally connected to the front anti-tip pivot arm 2390 at a pivot axis 2392 and that is pivotally connected to the rear anti-tip pivot arm at a pivot axis 2394. The connecting link could also be flexible, or extendible in length and can be coupled to the pivot arms in any manner.

The biasing member 172 can take a wide variety of different forms. Any spring device, devices, or assembly can be used as the biasing member. The biasing member may be a single spring, a bi-directional spring, or multiple spring elements. The biasing member may include a shock absorbing component, for example, the biasing member may be a shock absorber with a spring return 2006 (See FIG. 20C). In the example illustrated by FIG. 23, the biasing member 172 is connected (optionally pivotally connected) between a first mount 2391 that is connected to the frame 102 and a second mount 2393 that is connected to the front pivot arm 2390. The biasing member 172 illustrated by FIG. 23 is a compression spring that biases the front anti-tip arm 2390 downward as indicated by arrow 2364. A stop 194 may be fixed to the frame to limit downward movement of the pivot arm 2334 and/or the pivot arm 2390 with respect to the frame. In the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 23, the downward biasing of the front pivot arm 2390 causes downward biasing of the rear anti-tip arm 2334 through the connecting link 2311 as indicated by arrow 2362.

The embodiment illustrated by FIG. 23A is similar to the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 23, except, the biasing member 172 is connected (optionally pivotally connected) between a first mount 2391A that is connected to the frame 102 and a second mount 2393A that is connected to the rear pivot arm 2334 (instead of the front pivot arm 2390). In the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 23A, the downward biasing of the rear pivot arm 2334 causes downward biasing of the front anti-tip arm 2390 through the connecting link 2311 as indicated by arrow 2364.

The biasing member 172 can be an extension spring, a compression spring, or any type of extendible or retractable device or member positioned at a variety of different locations to provide the downward front and rear pivot arms 2390, 2334 biasing. In another embodiment, the biasing member 172 is configured to bias the front and rear anti-tip arms 2390, 2334 upward. This can be accomplished in a variety of different ways. For example, the biasing member 172 can be changed to apply force in the direction opposite the direction indicated by arrow 2364.

In the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 23, the front and rear anti-tip wheels 120, 108 are biased into contact with the support surface. However, the front and rear anti-tip wheels 120, 108 can be biased to any home position. For example, the front anti-tip wheel 120 or the rear anti-tip wheel 108 can be biased to a home position that is above the support surface. Biasing to a home position can be accomplished in a variety of different ways. For example, a bidirectional spring can be coupled to the linkage 2309 and/or any one or more spring arrangements that bias the pivot arms downward can be used with any one or more spring arrangements that bias the pivot arms upward. In an exemplary embodiment, whether the biasing member 172 biases the arms upward, downward, or to a home position, the biasing member causes the front anti-tip wheel 120 and the rear anti-tip wheel 108 to engage the horizontal support surface 119 when the wheelchair is at rest on the horizontal support surface. In another embodiment, the front anti-tip wheel 120 is spaced apart from the horizontal support surface 119 when the wheelchair is at rest on the horizontal support surface.

The front anti-tip wheel 120 is a wheel of a caster assembly. The illustrated front anti-tip wheel is rotatable about a caster axis 175. The illustrated front anti-tip wheel is connected to the forward end 2335 of the front anti-tip arm 2390 and the rear anti-tip wheel is connected to the rearward end 2382 of the rear anti-tip arm 2334. As noted above, the first and second front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 and the rear anti-tip wheels 108 may take a wide variety of different forms. In the embodiment illustrated by FIG. 23, the front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 and the rear anti-tip wheels 108 are wheels of caster assemblies.

FIGS. 26A and 26B illustrate a more specific embodiment of the wheelchair 2300 illustrated by FIGS. 23 and 24. It should be understood that the present application is not limited to the more specific embodiment illustrated by FIGS. 26A and 26B. FIG. 26A illustrates the wheelchair 2300 at rest in the normal operating position on the horizontal support surface 119. FIG. 26B illustrates the wheelchair of FIG. 26A with the drive wheel 132 removed to more clearly illustrate the suspension 2306.

FIGS. 25 and 25A illustrate operation of the exemplary embodiments of the wheelchair 2300 to traverse over an obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 bring the front anti-tip wheels 120 into engagement with the obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 force the anti-tip wheels 120, 121 up and onto the obstacle. This cause the anti-tip wheels 120 to move upward with respect to the frame 102, which, in turn, causes the anti-tip wheels 108 to move upward relative to the frame 102. The linkage 2309 transfers the upward movement of the front anti-tip wheel 120 to the rear anti-tip wheel 108 against the biasing force of the biasing member 172. The biasing member 172 is compressed as indicated by arrows 2500 in FIG. 25 and arrows 2500A in FIG. 25A. When anti-tip wheel 120 moves upward, the front anti-tip pivot arm 2390 rotates about the pivot axis 2313 as indicated by arrow 2410. The rotation of the front anti-tip pivot arm 2390 forces the connecting link 2311 downward as indicated by arrow 2412. The downward movement of the connecting link 2311 causes the rear anti-tip pivot arm 2334 to rotate about the pivot axis 2310 as indicated by arrow 2414. The rearward portion 2382 of the rear anti-tip pivot arm 2334 moves relatively upward with respect to the frame against the biasing force of the biasing member 172 as indicated by arrow 2416. The drive wheels 132 and the rear anti-tip wheels 108 remain on the ground and the upward movement (indicated by arrow 302) of the front anti-tip wheels 120 may cause the frame 102 to cant.

The drive wheels 132 continue to drive the wheelchair 2300 forward. The drive wheels 132 engage and climb over the obstacle 300. The drive wheels 132 move the wheelchair 2300 further forward on the obstacle 300. The rear anti-tip wheels 108 engage the obstacle 300. The biasing member 172, through the linkage 2309 in the FIG. 23 embodiment (or directly in the FIG. 23A embodiment), cushions the impact between the rear anti-tip wheels 108 and the obstacle. The drive wheels 132 continue to drive the wheelchair 2300 forward and pull the rear anti-tip wheels 108 up onto the obstacle 300.

A variety of situations can cause forward tipping of a wheelchair. The front anti-tip wheels 120 are configured to engage the support surface to prevent excessive forward tipping. When the front anti-tip wheels 120, 121 engage the support surface 119, the biasing member 172 is compressed by the linkage 2309 to cushion the impact with the support surface.

In one exemplary embodiment, the amount of force applied by the biasing member 172, and/or the position of the pivot axis 2313 can be adjusted or selected to control the amount of resistance to forward tip provided by the front anti-tip pivot arm 2390. For example, the resistance to forward tip can be increased for a heavy user by increasing a spring constant of the biasing member and/or shortening the distance between the pivot axis 2313 and the front anti-tip wheel 120. The spring constant of the biasing member can be decreased and/or the distance between the pivot axis 2313 and the front anti-tip wheel 120 can be increased to provide smoother curb climbing for a lighter user that may need less resistance to forward tip.

In the embodiments disclosed above, the motion of one or more wheels with respect to the frame may be linked to the motion of one or more other wheels with respect to the frame. The wheels may be linked in a wide variety of different ways. For example, one or more rigid links may couple the relative motion of one or more wheels relative to the frame to one or more other wheels with respect to the frame or a variable length link may couple the relative motion of one or more wheels to one or more other wheels. FIGS. 20A, 20B, and 20C illustrate examples of variable length links. FIG. 20A illustrates a shock absorber 2002, FIG. 20B illustrates a spring 2004, and FIG. 20C illustrates a shock absorber with a spring return 2006. In these examples, the variable length links are pivotally connected to pivot arms, but the variable length links could be coupled to the wheels in any manner. A wide variety of other variable length links may also be used.

In one exemplary embodiment, one or more of the anti-tip wheels 120, 121, 108 of the wheelchair are replaced with an anti-tip structure that is not a wheel. Such an arrangement may be particularly useful applications where the corresponding wheel is normally off the ground. For example, the front anti-tip wheels 102, 121 in the embodiments disclosed above may be replaced with an anti-tip structure that is not a wheel. However, an anti-tip structure that is not a wheel may be used in any wheelchair configuration. Anti-tip wheels may be replaced with a wide variety of different anti-tip structures. For example, any structure capable of engaging an obstacle (for example, a curb), and sliding or otherwise moving over the obstacle can be used. Examples of anti-tip structures that can be used in place of a wheel include, but are not limited to, members with inclined surfaces (such as inclined skis), continuous tracks (such as those used on tanks), cylinders having a spiral flange (such as those used on screw propelled vehicles), rotatable geometric shapes (such as triangles, squares, etc), and the like.

FIGS. 21A and 21B illustrate embodiments where the anti-tip structure is a ski 2100. The illustrated ski 2100 has arched contact surfaces 2102, but can have any shape and may be flat. FIGS. 22A and 22B illustrate embodiments where the anti-tip structures are continuous tracks 2200. The tracks 2200 include belts 2202 disposed around rollers 2204, such that the belts are moveable around the rollers.

The anti-tip structures may be mounted to the wheelchair in any orientation with respect to the wheelchair. In the embodiments illustrated by FIGS. 21A, 21B, 22A, and 22B, bottom or contact surfaces 2102, 2202 of the anti-tip structures are inclined upward, away from a support arm 2104 that connects or couples the anti-tip structure to the frame. This upward inclination facilitates movement of the anti-tip structure over the obstacle.

The anti-tip structures 2100, 2200 can be mounted or coupled to the support arm 2104 in a variety of different ways. In the embodiments illustrated by FIGS. 21A and 22A, the anti-tip structures 2100, 2200 are fixed to the support arm 2104. In the embodiments illustrated by FIGS. 21B and 22B, the anti-tip structures 2100, 2200 are moveably coupled to the support arm 2104. The anti-tip structures 2100, 2200 can be moveably coupled to the support arm 2104 in a variety of different ways. Any arrangement that allows the anti-tip structure 2100, 2200 to move with respect to the support arm 2104 can be used. In the illustrated examples, the anti-tip structures 2100, 2200 are pivotally connected to the support arm 2104. An optional biasing member 2150, such as a spring, biases the anti-tip structure 2100, 2200 forward as indicated by arrow 2152. The biasing member 2150 cushions impact between the anti-tip structure 2100, 2200.

While various inventive aspects, concepts and features of the inventions may be described and illustrated herein as embodied in combination in the exemplary embodiments, these various aspects, concepts and features may be used in many alternative embodiments, either individually or in various combinations and sub-combinations thereof. Unless expressly excluded herein all such combinations and sub-combinations are intended to be within the scope of the present inventions. Still further, while various alternative embodiments as to the various aspects, concepts and features of the inventions—such as alternative materials, structures, configurations, methods, devices and components, alternatives as to form, fit and function, and so on—may be described herein, such descriptions are not intended to be a complete or exhaustive list of available alternative embodiments, whether presently known or later developed. Those skilled in the art may readily adopt one or more of the inventive aspects, concepts or features into additional embodiments and uses within the scope of the present inventions even if such embodiments are not expressly disclosed herein. Additionally, even though some features, concepts or aspects of the inventions may be described herein as being a preferred arrangement or method, such description is not intended to suggest that such feature is required or necessary unless expressly so stated. Still further, exemplary or representative values and ranges may be included to assist in understanding the present disclosure, however, such values and ranges are not to be construed in a limiting sense and are intended to be critical values or ranges only if so expressly stated. Moreover, while various aspects, features and concepts may be expressly identified herein as being inventive or forming part of an invention, such identification is not intended to be exclusive, but rather there may be inventive aspects, concepts and features that are fully described herein without being expressly identified as such or as part of a specific invention, the inventions instead being set forth in the appended claims. Descriptions of exemplary methods or processes are not limited to inclusion of all steps as being required in all cases, nor is the order that the steps are presented to be construed as required or necessary unless expressly so stated.

While the present invention has been illustrated by the description of embodiments thereof, and while the embodiments have been described in considerable detail, it is not the intention of the applicant to restrict or in any way limit the scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additional advantages and modifications will readily appear to those skilled in the art. For example, pivotal connections can be made of any number of structures including bearing assemblies, pins, nuts and bolts, and frictionless sleeve assemblies. Additionally, springs or shock absorbers can be added between pivoting and non-pivoting components to limit, dampen, or somewhat resist the pivotal motions of these components. Therefore, the invention, in its broader aspects, is not limited to the specific details, the representative apparatus, and illustrative examples shown and described. Accordingly, departures can be made from such details without departing from the spirit or scope of the applicant's general inventive concept. 

1. A wheelchair comprising: a frame; a seat supported by the frame; a first drive assembly comprising a first motor and a first drive wheel that is driven by the first motor; a first suspension assembly that couples the first drive assembly to the frame such that the first drive assembly is moveable relative to the frame; a second drive assembly comprising a second motor and a second drive wheel that is driven by the second motor; a second suspension assembly that couples the second drive assembly to the frame such that the second drive assembly is moveable relative to the frame and relative to the first drive assembly; at least one rear caster coupled to the frame; wherein said first drive wheel, said second drive wheel, and said at least one rear caster engage a horizontal support surface when the wheelchair is at rest in a normal operating position on the horizontal support surface; first and second rigid aims fixedly connected to the frame; first and second front idler wheels rotatably connected to the first and second rigid arms such that positions of axes of rotation of the first and second idler wheels with respect to the frame are fixed; wherein said first and second idler wheels are spaced apart from the horizontal support surface when the wheelchair is at rest in the normal operating position on the horizontal support surface.
 2. The wheelchair of claim 1 wherein each of said first and second suspension assemblies comprise a pivot arm pivotally coupled to the frame.
 3. The wheelchair of claim 2 wherein each drive assembly is fixed to the pivot arm of one of the suspension assemblies.
 4. The wheelchair assembly of claim 3 wherein the at least one rear caster is fixed to the frame.
 5. The wheelchair of claim 2 wherein said at least one rear caster comprises first and second rear casters, wherein each drive assembly is connected to a forward link of the pivot arm of one of the suspension assemblies, and wherein each rear caster is connected to a rearward link of the pivot arm of one of the suspension assemblies.
 6. The wheelchair of claim 4 wherein each pivot arm is pivotally connected to the frame at a pivot point, wherein the forward link of each pivot arm extends forwardly from the pivot point and the rearward link of each pivot arm extends rearward from the pivot point.
 7. The wheelchair of claim 2 further comprising first and second springs that bias the first and second pivot arms downwardly with respect to the frame.
 8. The wheelchair of claim 5 further comprising a spring for each pivot arm that biases said rear portion of each pivot arm downwardly with respect to the frame.
 9. The wheelchair suspension of claim 1 wherein each drive assembly is pivotally connected to the frame at a first pivot axis and then at least one rear caster is pivotally connected to the frame at a second pivot axis and the first pivot axis is in front of the second pivot axis on the frame.
 10. The wheelchair of claim 1 wherein each of said first and second suspension assemblies comprise a drive assembly pivot arm pivotally coupled to the frame and wherein the at least one rear caster is pivotally connected to the frame by at least one rear caster pivot arm.
 11. The wheelchair of claim 10 wherein at least one rear caster pivot arm is coupled to at least one drive assembly pivot arm.
 12. The wheelchair of claim 11 wherein the at least one rear caster pivot arm is coupled to the at least one drive assembly pivot arm by a variable length link.
 13. The wheelchair of claim 10 wherein each drive assembly pivot arm is biased downward with respect to the frame by a drive assembly spring and wherein each rear caster pivot arm is biased downward with respect to the frame by a rear caster spring.
 14. The wheelchair of claim 1 wherein said first suspension assembly is configured to limit movement of the first drive assembly with respect to the frame to substantially linear movement.
 15. The wheelchair of claim 1 wherein said first suspension assembly comprises a track and a follower, wherein movement of the follower in the track defines movement of the first drive assembly with respect to the frame.
 16. The wheelchair of claim 1 wherein said first suspension assembly is configured to prevent forward and rearward movement of the first drive assembly with respect to the frame.
 17. The wheelchair of claim 2 wherein a pivot axis of each pivot arm is substantially perpendicular to an axis of rotation of the drive wheel.
 18. A wheelchair comprising: a frame; a seat supported by the frame; first and second drive assemblies each comprising a motor and a drive wheel that is driven by the first motor, wherein each of the first and second drive assemblies are coupled to the frame; a pair of suspension assemblies each comprising: a front anti-tip wheel positioned in front of the drive wheels; a rear anti-tip wheel positioned behind the drive wheels; a linkage that couples the front anti-tip wheel to the rear anti-tip wheel such that upward movement of one of the front and rear anti-tip wheels causes upward movement of the other of the front and rear anti-tip wheels.
 19. The wheelchair of claim 18 wherein said first and second drive assemblies are fixed to the frame.
 20. The wheelchair of claim 18 wherein said first and second drive assemblies are coupled to the frame by independent drive assembly suspensions.
 21. The wheelchair of claim 18 wherein the front and rear anti-tip wheels are coupled to the frame by front and rear arms that are pivotally connected to the frame.
 22. The wheelchair of claim 21 wherein the linkage is connected to the front and rear arms.
 23. The wheelchair of claim 21 further comprising a spring that biases the rear anti-tip wheel downward with respect to the frame.
 24. The wheelchair of claim 18 wherein the drive wheels and the rear anti-tip wheels are in contact with a horizontal support surface and the front anti-tip wheel is spaced apart from the horizontal support surface when the wheelchair is at rest in a normal operating position on the horizontal support surface.
 25. The wheelchair of claim 18 wherein the drive wheels and the front and rear anti-tip wheels are all in contact with a horizontal support surface when the wheelchair is at rest in a normal operating position on the horizontal support surface.
 26. The wheelchair of claim 18 wherein the linkage comprises a variable length link. 